FREEHOLD, NJ — The Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners is urging residents to participate in the county’s 2026 Tire Pick-Up Program, a free seasonal service aimed at reducing mosquito populations by removing one of their most common breeding grounds.
The program will run from February 1 through March 31, providing residents with an opportunity to dispose of unwanted car tires safely and at no cost. Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone emphasized that improperly stored tires present a significant public health concern, as they readily collect rainwater and create ideal conditions for mosquito breeding.
“Tires are one of the most common and dangerous mosquito breeding habitats, and services like the tire pick-up program are essential to reducing mosquito populations,” Arnone said. He encouraged residents to act early and schedule a pickup by calling 732-542-3630 during the program window.
Residents requesting a pickup will be asked to provide basic information, including their name, address, the number of tires, and where the tires are located on their property. The program will accept up to ten car tires per property, provided the tires do not have rims attached.
Commissioner Susan M. Kiley, the Board’s liaison to the Department of Health and Human Services, noted that even a single tire left outdoors can pose a serious risk. She said one tire can produce more than 10,000 biting mosquitoes, increasing the likelihood of mosquito-borne illnesses and creating broader health concerns for neighborhoods.
Kiley explained that the tire pick-up initiative is part of Monmouth County’s broader mosquito control strategy, which includes larval habitat inspections, environmentally responsible treatments, disease surveillance, and public education. These early-season efforts are designed to curb mosquito populations before they escalate during warmer months.
County officials stressed that community participation plays a critical role in the success of mosquito control efforts. By removing standing water sources like discarded tires, residents can help protect public health and improve quality of life throughout Monmouth County as mosquito season approaches.